Head of Operations Engineering

About the position

Job Title: Head of Operations Engineering
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Morgantown, West Virginia, United States
Industry: Food Production / Beverage Manufacturing

About the Role

We are seeking an accomplished Head of Operations Engineering to lead and optimize the engineering function at an aseptic beverage manufacturing facility in Morgantown, WV. This role is critical in driving operational excellence, coordinating complex engineering projects, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and food safety regulations.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with a solid track record in manufacturing engineering, budget management, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous improvement. If youre passionate about building scalable systems, reducing downtime, and managing high-impact capital projects, we invite you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all engineering operations, processes, and systems across the facility
• Oversee strategic planning, implementation, and performance analysis (KPIs)
• Supervise capital projects and manage CapEx, training, and support budgets
• Drive efficiency improvements through facility and process optimization
• Manage engineering drawings, design specifications, and equipment standards
• Own the CMMS system (e.g., Upkeep) for maintenance tracking and interdepartmental coordination
• Collaborate with Maintenance, EH&S, Reliability, and Production teams
• Plan and coordinate large-scale plant shutdowns, renovations, and expansions
• Establish and maintain engineering best practices, compliance, and safety standards
• Build and develop a high-performing engineering team; assign tasks and monitor workloads
• Support food safety programs including SQF and GMP compliance

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical, or Electrical Engineering
• Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering experience in manufacturing
• At least 5 years of leadership experience managing capital projects and cross-functional teams
• Strong expertise in engineering processes, troubleshooting, and process mapping
• Ability to read and develop P&ID diagrams
• Proficiency with Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, ERP/CRM systems, MES platforms
• Hands-on experience with CMMS tools and maintenance coordination
• Strong command of organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Willingness to work in proximity to electromagnetic equipment and occasionally lift up to 15 lbs

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or advanced business degree
• Experience in low-acid aseptic manufacturing or beverage packaging
• Familiarity with FDA, PMO, SQF, and EH&S standards (e.g., LOTO procedures)
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) in the food industry
• Vendor management and technology scouting experience

Language Requirement

• Proficiency in English (written and verbal) is required

Work Authorization

• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Place of work